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10/100M Fast Ethernet Switch 5/8 port RC-405X/RC-406X User Manual
1
INTRODUCTION
Fast Ethernet Technology
The growing importance of LANs and the increasing complexity of desktop computing application are fueling the need for
high performance networks. A number of high-speed LAN technologies have been proposed to provide greater
bandwidth and improve client/server response times. Among them, Fast Ethernet, or l00Base-T provides a non-disruptive,
smooth evolution from the current l0Base-T technology. The non-disruptive and smooth evolution nature, and the
dominating potential market base, virtually guarantee cost effective and high performance Fast Ethernet solutions in the
years to come.
100Mbps Fast Ethernet is a new standard specified by the IEEE802.3 LAN committee. It is an extension of the 10Mbps
Ethernet standard with the ability to transmit and receive data at 100Mbps, while maintaining the CSMNCD Ethernet
protocol. Since the l00Mbps Fast Ethernet is compatible with all other l0Mbps Ethernet environments, it provides a
straightforward upgrade and takes advantage of the company's existing investment in hardware, software, and personnel
training.
Switching Technology
Another approach to pushing beyond the limits of Ethernet technology is the development of switching technology. A
switch bridges Ethernet packets at the MAC address level of the Ethernet protocol transmitting among connected
Ethernet or Fast Ethernet LAN segments.
Switching is a cost-effective way of increasing the total network capacity available to users on a local area network. A
switch increases capacity and decreases network loading by making it possible for a local area network to be divided into
different segments which don't compete with each other for network transmission capacity, giving a decreased load on
each.
The switch acts as a high-speed selective bridge between the individual segments. The switch automatically forwards
traffic that needs to go from one segment to another, without interfering with any other segments. This allows the total
network capacity to be multiplied, while still maintaining the same network cabling and adapter cards.
For Fast Ethernet networks, a switch is an effective way of eliminating problems of chaining hubs beyond the
"two-repeater" limit. A switch can be used to split parts of the network into different collision domains, making it possible
to expand your Fast Ethernet network beyond the 205 meters network diameter limit for 100BASE-TX networks. Switches
supporting both traditional 10Mbps Ethernet and l00Mbps Fast Ethernet are also ideal for bridging between existing
l0Mbps networks and new l00Mbps networks.
Switching LAN technology is a marked improvement over the previous generation of network bridges, which were
characterized by higher latencies.
Features
y Simple plug & play installation and use
y Easy to use with built-in error detection and correction
y Suitable for desktop use and ideal for Small Office, Home Office
y 5/8-port N-way(auto-negotiation) 10/100Mbps fast Ethernet switching hub